DMC: Devil May Cry Reviews Summary

A gothic hack and slash developed by Ninja Theory for Ps3, Xbox 360 and Microsoft windows.  Set in an alternative reality to the Devil May Cry series.

Plot:
Born of a demon father and an angel mother, You play  Dante (sporting a black haired alternative reality hairdo) as he makes his way through the demon infested Limbo, aided by enigmatic guide Kat. An astonishing 5 levels of difficulty, upgradable weapons and powers, new air combos and two new combat modifiers (Angel mode and Devil mode) add to the button mashing goodliness.

What it says on the tin:
Join Dante in this stylish action experience; chain together multiple combos with flair and send the demonic spawn back to hell – reveal the truth behind the lies

Reception:
Reviewers had little to gripe about, but a number drew attention to the shortness (10 hours give or take secret areas), minor glitches, poor storyline, and some tut tutting on less refined combat mechanics and game style from series purists.  Still the game earned a rather handsome 86% from 53 critic reviews on Metacritic.

Quote of the Bunch:
The combat system is deep, satisfying, and just welcoming enough to let you in, before losing the smile, slapping your face and making you pay attention. Official Xbox Magazine UK

Reviews Summary:
Fast, robust action, marvelous visual style, and a tremendous sense of attitude
This is not a classic Devil May Cry game
A phenomenal action game in its own right, a blistering start to 2013
Offers deep and flexible combat but in a more accessible and approachable form
Manages to make Dante look like the epitome of cool with every move
A robust, deep and brilliantly executed action game
DMC is played for the action, and the stylish, beautiful action alone.
It's the art direction and technical problems that let the package down.
DMC is intense, but a bit slow for the seasoned player.

Official Game Website
DMC Devil May Cry Wallpaper on Beautry Re-rendered Blog
DMC Devil May Cry Facebook Covers

Alf The Helper: all these "Cry" games... I think it's a conspiracy..
Elderly: Oh sweet... conspiracy!? how do you mean?
Alf The Helper: It's a little odd, Devil May Cry, Far Cry 3, and February's Crysis 3.. it's a pattern!
Elderly: Crysis 3? are you... No your right, they went to great lengths to ensure you'd spot the pattern and get a chance to talk about it right here on this blog..
Alf The Helper: They did!? wow!! they did all that just for me?
Elderly: Sure did...
Alf The Helper: Wow!! I mean that's incredible...
Elderly: Yep your right again.. absolutely incredible..
Alf The Helper: Wow!!

Okami HD Review Summary Ps3

 

Okami HD is an action adventure released via Playstation Network in October 2012.  Essentially the ummph version (supporting Playstation's Move) of the critically acclaimed (IGN's Game of the Year 2006) but poorly selling Ps2 game developed by the now defunct Clover Studio  and published by Capcom.

The game draws on Japanese myths to tell the story of how the land was saved from darkness by the Sun Goddess, taking the physical form of a white wolf. The environment is an animated watercolor and ink styled, cel-shaded delight for the eyes and the gameplay a mix of action, platform, and puzzle gaming genres.

For a re-release, the HD version scored an extraordinary 90% from 39 critic reviews on Metacritic. 

Quote of the Bunch:
Okami HD is a great example of what games can accomplish outside the realm of guns and gore, and I love it for that.  Machinima

Reviews Summary.
An experience that should not be missed, ahead of its time with its initial release.
A timeless classic, full of charm, subtle ingenuity, and beauty, remade in stunning HD.
Sad to see that after six years it is still one of the best examples of its genre.
The true vision of the creators has seemingly been realized, in glorious 1080p high definition.
Just as good of a game today as it was six years ago.
An essential part of any collection, especially in this flawless, gorgeous reissue.
Shows some signs of aging, it remains an awe-inspiring experience like no other.
Even more potent today than it was in 2006, Okami is Zelda's one and only match

Official Website

Alf The Helper: So your telling me that the original developers created a timeless classic, a jewel in the crown of video games, ... and yet because of poor sales of this veritable masterpiece, they went out of business?
Elderly: Essentially .... Yes
Alf The Helper: But that... that... that just makes me sad.... :(
Elderly: And so it should...
Alf The Helper: Well...in the words of Carly Rae Jepsen.. A change is going to come..
Elderly: .....that would be Sam Cooke...
Alf The Helper: Where?
Elderly: .. no Alf... the lyrics.... that would be Sam Cooke... A change is goin to come...
Alf The Helper: Not Carly.. !? ...I was so sure, you could have called me Maybel...
Elderly: no that's ....Call me maybe .. sigh.... Alf take a lie down.... please

Persona 4 Arena Review Summary and Wallpaper

Wallpaper 1600x900

For Xbox 360 and Ps3, Persona 4: Arena is a narrative heavy, 2D fighting game follow up to the cult hit JRPG series, Shin Megami Tensei: Persona by Atlus.  The game was released in the US on August 7th and a release in the EU.. when they get round to it.. is set for September 7th.

The Plot
Featuring characters from Persona 3 and Persona 4, the game focuses on a fighting tournament that takes place in an alternative reality, best described as the TV World.  In Arena, Players are able to  follow individual characters through story mode, or take the game online to wreak havoc with your fighting skills.

Reception
Famitsu, the best selling Japanese gaming magazine, with four separate reviewers, gave the game a score of 36/40 90%.  Whilst Metacritic gave the Ps3 version a resounding 86% and the xbox 360 84%.

Trivia
The game has earned itself the rather embarassing accolade of being the first region locked game on PlayStation 3.  The reason, according to those that know, is to prevent re-importation. Huh!? the game includes both a Japanese and an Engish audio and apparently Japanese players would have been able to import the Us version at a far lower price than sold in Japan.

Quote of the bunch:
"It weaves the majesty and imagination of one of the best role playing franchises of all-time into the snarling bravado of a one-on-one brawler so effortlessly, one wonders why it's never been done so well until now. -IGN

Reviews Summary
A fantastically realized fighting game
Easily stand out even in the crowded fighting game segment.
Approachable, deep gameplay, staggeringly beautiful.
If you're a JRPG or fighter fanatic with even a hint of interest in the other genre, P4A is an absolute must-buy.
It has a robust story, an interesting system, a magnificent roster, and wonderful music
An elaborate yet engrossing fighter that packs a ton of content suffers from a few design choices.
Mastering the mechanics of this engine involves a lot of time and effort in the training room.
These are fighters you can care about, and this is a fighting game everyone should play.

Official Website (froze in my IE9, fine in Safari)

Alf the Helper: Mr. elderly, mr. elderly!..... there is no  popcorn!!
Elderly: No Alf there isn't..
Alf the Helper: But that means I won't have any popcorn ready for when the viewers arrive
Elderly: You mean you won't have a chance to burn the popcorn again...
Alf the Helper: oh ... yes, right... I see... :(

(....Alf saunters off dejectedly)

Bargain Bin: Devil May Cry 4

Back to the bargain bin again before pay day and this time it's a frustratingly difficult classic released for Ps3, xbox 360 and Windows on Feb 2008.  If you've no intention of ever purchasing it, you might amuse yourself by looking for a signed collector's edition, see "trivia" section below.

Devil May Cry 4 is a hack and slash beat 'em up, with the player controling both the game's protagonist Nero and the series' main character Dante, as they take on a veritable legion of demons.  The series is renowned for it's high level of difficulty and DMC 4 is no different.

Receiving resoundingly favourable reviews the game Scored 84% from 61 critic reviews on Metacritic.  Criticism was levelled at the industrial hard rock soundtrack, a frugal approach to level design and a "screwy" camera.

Quote of the Bunch
"It's polished and slick, it's got gargantuan-sized gods, near-musical interludes, and infernal, flaming bosses. It's nothing short of brilliant." IGN Uk

Reviews Summary:
DMC4 returns showcasing how action games should be made.
A stunning triumph of an action game, the gameplay is sparkling with life,
Riddled with too many flaws to really enjoy completely
Replay value, self-improvement and the challenge of later stages make DMC4 a classic
Capcom has passed up the opportunity to do something new and exciting.
A tragic amount of recycling here, it does nothing new, but damn, if it isn't fun to play.
This game is rock solid with some of the most spectacular and fast paced gameplay. 
You'll be hard-pressed to find a better-feeling, better-looking, jack-of-all-trades action game

Trivia
Some 200 copies of the metal box, collector's edition  (100 per console version) were signed in silver marker by the game's producer, Hiroyuki Kobayashi, on the back of the metal tin on Dante's left shoulder (see image above).

For  those that have spent sleepless nights pondering the award system's letter allocation, the following will help you sleep easier.

D for Deadly
C for Carnage
B for Brutal
A for Atomic
S for Smokin'
SS for Smokin' Style
SSS for "Smokin' Sick Style

Official Website (Japanese)
Devil May Cry portal, now dedicated to "DMC", the new release due 15th January 2013.

See all "Bargain Bin" posts

Spec Ops: The Line Reviews Summary

Spec Ops: The Line is a third-person shooter developed by Yager Development and published by 2K Games.  Released for Windows, Ps3 and Xbox 360 on June 26th 2012.

What it says on the Tin:
A provocative third-person modern military shooter that challenges your morality by planting you right in the middle of horrific situations where choices affecting human life must be made. Single player squad commands include enemy targeting and healing squad members. A multiplayer mode enriches the single player campaign with six game types across 7 maps, community leaderboards and challenges.

The Plot
You play as Captain Martin Walker sent into Dubai with an elite Delta Force team to hunt for a decorated officer named Colonel Konrad. And yes I hear you whisper Apocalypse now but according to lead writer Walt Williams the storyline was inspired by Joseph Conrad's novella Heart of Darkness.

So is it more blood and guts than the average sitting room can endure or a medium for a cautionary tale on the horrors of war?  With 15 critic reviews in so far, Metacritic have awarded the game a passable 78% with praise lavished on the narrative, themes, and provocative take on violence in video games. Reviewers agreed on a competent Ai, but a run of the mill multiplayer, and mixed reaction to the game's visuals.

Quote of the Bunch:
"A brutal, cruel, and impactful trip in the frail psyche of a soldier, that unfortunately falls short in the gameplay department due to lack of real innovation"
SpazioGames (Italian)

Reviews Summary:
A brave step forward for developers who want to help us get more from games than just gunplay
Imaginative take on combat is left parched by a gruelling campaign
A story as strong and daring as those of Bioshock, Shadow of the Colossus and Dead Space 2.
Game mechanics are noticeably dated and bereft of innovation
Great ideas mired beneath the weight of a generic shooter
Gameplay mechanics that rival much more established franchises.
A more adult attempt to reach player's feelings.
Lacks a strong multiplayer experience, without which it can't be a must buy.
A game with guns that doesn't want you to be the hero, it wants you to feel terrible about trying to be one.

Official Website
Screenshots on IGN

Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning Review Summary

It was obvious with a gathering of legendary figures such as Ken Rolston (executive designer) of Elder Scrolls fame, R. A. Salvatore (game lore and universe) author of the DemonWars Saga and Forgotten Realms novels, and Todd McFarlane (artwork) comic Superstar of Spawn renown, we were in for a treat. 

Developed by 38 Studios and Big Huge Games, Kingdoms of Amalur features 5 distinct regions, 4 playable races, and 3 class trees with 22 abilities per tree.  Combat is based on the timing of button press, which won't get you far unless you rely on strategy and "proper" RPG playing.

(drools....)

Prologue:"Your body was left to rot in a pile of corpses, another failed experiment. But you are alive. Unbound by the chains of Fate, you are free to choose your Destiny. And with the Faelands enveloped in the Crystal War, your power will not go unnoticed—by friend or foe"

(drools....)

Currently scoring 80% (xbox 360) and 81% (Ps3) on Metacritic.com, it isn't perfect, but boy has it got lineage and perhaps the finest combat system designed for any RPG.

Quote of the bunch:"Does all the boring, difficult parts of RPG game design very well, and marries them to exceptionally slick combat and a towering stack of stuff to do" Eurogamer

Reviews Summary:
Deep, polished gameplay wrapped around an interesting and engulfing universe
Combat scenarios themselves are painfully pedantic and lose any surprise after the first few hours of play
Immaculately crafted and beautiful, yet still simple and accessible
RPG players craving depth and the ability to make real choices or play a role will be out of luck
KOAR is simply staggering; it's a tremendous achievement and an experience you shouldn't miss.
Just isn't fleshed out enough to be the product of the three visionaries behind it.
The combat is what really sets the game apart rivals Skyrim's scope
A labor of love from creative people with the ways and means to bring their ideas to fruition, and it shows
It's less a world you discover, ultimately, as one you revisit, and that's a failing no amount of fancy footwork can disguise
Reckoning is the first title to offer a legitimate challenge to the Elder Scrolls juggernaut
An arcade version of Skyrim, packed with the visual style of World of Warcraft and an action combat system. 

Official Website
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning Game Wallpaper

Alf the Helper: ah you want me to get a tissue?
Elderly: A tissue? why would.. oh the drooling! yes unfortunate that, no no I'm fine
Alf the Helper: So... well... are we getting this?
Elderly: Yes yes no doubt...
Alf the Helper: :) really why that's just excellent
Elderly: I'm glad your happy, now you won't feel half so bad without your wages
Alf the Helper: :) ...?  !..wait... hold on... mr. elderly.. what did you say about my wages... mr.elderly

NeverDead Review Summary xbox 360, Ps3

Having taken the time to cover this with a preview, I had high hopes that a game directed by Shinta Nojiri, a former  disciple of Hideo Kojima, would be a rare treat.  If you passed it on your way to the FF13-2 queue, don't worry you haven't missed much.

Scoring 52% on Metacritic.com my expectations have been dashed.

Quote of the bunch

"NeverDead sways between boring, frustrating and painful" IGN

Reviews Summary

NeverDead is a cool and solid hack'n'slay like the good old Devil May Cry games.

An amateur effort that redefines the boundary between bad game and flat-out punishment.
An idiosyncratic (and often one-legged) dance through entertainingly outlandish territory
The game feels more like a grind than an epic adventure.
The Creators gave up on it half-way through.
Neverdead will satisfy those willing to try something different
The art direction is quite good, in a lowbrow, pulp comic book kind of a way.

Aside from the premise and dialogue, NeverDead does little else right.

 

Elderly: Alf why have you put your Arcadia Maximille poster up, I thought it was your favourite?

Alf the Helper: Don't want it anymore!!

Elderly: But you said it was your favourite game character poster

Alf the Helper: I changed my mind, it's not!

Elderly: Your upset aren't you?

Alf the Helper: Nope....sniff!...

Elderly: You had a crush on her hadn't you?

Alf the Helper: She... she.. she let me down.... :(

Elderly: I may regret this, but grab your jacket we're heading to the pub

Alf the Helper: kay :(

Final Fantasy Xiii-2 Reviews Summary

Release Dates For Xbox 360 and Ps3:Japan Dec 15th 2011
US Feb Jan 31st 2012
Aus Feb 2nd
Eu Feb 3rd

Fantajī Sātīn Tsū or Final Fantasy XIII-2, is the eagerly awaited sequel to the 2009 RPG, Final Fantasy XIII, taking up the story three years after the original.  Lightning has gone and got herself disappeared and her younger sister Serah Farron and newcomer Noel Kreiss must find her. Shimple! well not so shimple as you would imagine.
A new combat system has been designed to counter criticism levelled at the original. In addition a new feature to control the difficulty of battles has been included plus the ability to  tame monsters and add them to your party. And if that wasn't enough to contend with there's the Mog Clock, Live Trigger, Temporal Rift and the Historia Crux System.

Enough already! is it any good? An  overview of the current reviews suggest that whilst the story may be a bit laclustre, it appears we've finally got the 13th edition of final fantasy we had hoped for.

Japanese Games Magazine Famitsu gave the game a perfect score, a pretty rare achievement, but it appears us Western folk weren't as captivated, with some of the review scores looking generous when compared to the review content.

Scoring 80% (xbox 360) and 79% (Ps3) respectively on Metacritic.com , FFXIII-2 still musters up a punch and  a must buy for us die hard Final Fantasy nuts.

Reviews Summary

Quote of the Bunch: Progression is player-driven, combat is even more entertaining, and an array of other adjustments makes it one of my favorite RPGs from a mechanical perspective. I just want all of that integrated with a story that isn't laughable and borderline insulting, and that's where Final Fantasy XIII-2 falters. Game Informer

Despite its disappointingly open ending, FF XIII-2 surpasses the original in every way.
Does very little to stand out on its own merits
It isn't a timeless adventure in the grand tradition of the beloved series
A great J-rpg, with an amazing amount of content.
A mishmash of interesting systems and bold ideas that never quite gel
A very enjoyable return to more familiar grounds
Substandard combat and unrefined level replays. Good, but not good enough.
It can conjure a feeling that's a combination of love, hate, derision and awe.
It isn't just a sequel, as it carves out its own tale to stand among the Final Fantasy pantheon.

Official Website

Final Fantasy XIII-2 Wallpaper on Rendered Beauty
Final Fantasy XIII-2 Wallpaper on Beautry Re-Rendered
Final Fantasy XIII02 Wallpaper on Just Walls

Alf the Helper: If Lightning has disappeared, then how will they know when they've found her?
Elderly: I don't catch your drift, which isn't a surprise to me, but where are you going with this?
Alf the Helper: Well let's say they do catch up with her, then how would they know? if she's invisible?
Elderly: But she's no.... wait she's disappeared.. not... Alf please... find something to do
Alf the Helper: I could stay here and look out for the leprechaun :)
Elderly: Something to do... a long way away from here, preferably somewhere dark and sound proofed.
Alf the Helper: :(

Amy, The Game Review Summary

From the creator of Flashback, a survival horror, set to launch on PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade on Wednesday 11th January 2012.

Amy Official Website

Plot: A comet strike has brought havoc on humanity, unleashing a deadly virus that has infected almost everyone.  Lana regains consciousness in the midst of chaos, roads have been destroyed, walls crumbling, electricity cables cut.

As Lana begins to feel the effects of the virus she meets Amy, a seemingly defenseless eight-year-old autistic girl who has curious powers. Together, they must fight or run from the infected humans, demons and the military, in the hope of not only saving each other, but also the future of humanity. 

What it says on the tin: A new approach to the survival horror genre, a unique experience at the crossroads of horror, adventure, action and
stealth. The co-operative gameplay featured in Amy is a deep and unique system that requires players to think carefully
in order to keep both characters alive.

Cool bits: Players must use Amy's size and special abilities to their advantage by keeping her close in order to ward off the virus,
and having her complete tasks that Lana can't..  Holding Amy's hand sends vibrations to the controller in sync with Amy's
heartbeat.  If danger is present or approaching, Amy's heartbeat will increase.

Cost Issue: In the US, Amy will cost 800 Microsoft Points ($10) while its PSN counterpart $3 more, $12.99.
Update! Lexis Numérique and VectorCell announced that they will drop the PlayStation Network price of AMY to $9.99, pushing the release date back to January 17th. 

Reviews Summary:
Scoring 22% Xbox 360 and 36% Ps3 on Metacritic.com, it's fate is sealed :(
Pick of the Review bunch

"Hugely disappointing download is not just a failure as a survival horror but as a video game"
Metro

Technically shoddy, poorly designed and unbearably frustrating
An imaginative concept and some strong design are undone by a game that's gruelling in all the wrong ways.
Amy rises above the zombie splatter masses
Grueling death-march through a gauntlet of poor design choices 

It is terrible and should be avoided.

Alf the helper: So are we getting it then?
Elderly: I dunno, the reviews kinda sunk my boat.
Alf the helper: There's a boat?
Elderly: No.. it was just a figure of... are you really... nevermind..
Alf the helper: I like boats, we should get it!
Elderly: 8/

Trine 2 Review Summary and Game Trailer

Online and local co-op for up to three players. A side-scrolling action platform and puzzle video game developed by Frozenbyte. The adventure begins when the three heroes, the thief, the knight and the wizard, rediscover the Trine which brings them back together. They then decide to travel on a journey to save the kingdom from evil goblins and other fiends.

Alf the Helper: fiends!...like Gnomes!
Elderly: No Alf, Gnomes aren't fiends
Alf the Helper: What are Gnomes then?
Edlerly: Alf... shut up!
Alf the Helper: :(

Available for
•PC & Mac (released on 7 December 2011)
•(Xbox 360) XBLA worldwide (to be released on 21 December 2011)
•(Ps3) PSN NA (to be released on 20 December 2011)
•(Ps3) PSN EU (TBD 2011)
•Linux (2012)

So is it any good then?  well here's What it says on the tin:

•Physics-based puzzles with fire, water, gravity and magic
•Online and local co-op for up to three players
•Save anywhere to play as long or short sessions as you like
•Unlimited Character and Game+ modes add to additional replay value
•Accessible for both casual and hardcore gamers
•Hidden collectibles extend the length of your adventure
•Fun and challenging Achievements to unlock
•Soundtrack composed by the acclaimed Ari Pulkkinen

Official Website

And with no Xbox 360 or Ps3 review available at the time of posting here's what the critics had to say about the PC version.
Scoring 86% on Metacritic

Executive Summary: short but sweet

Reviews Summary
A lesson of how a great game should be.
No matter who you are, you can't help but love Trine 2
One of the most beautiful games this year
Some of the most amazing 2D graphics ever seen
A charming fantasy platformer with dazzling good looks and fun physics puzzles.
Better, bigger and funnier.
It's short, but the design and the animations are extraordinary

Saints Row The Third Review Summary

On release with an 18 certificate, in US and Australia, set for Eu release on 18th November 2011, for xbox 360, Ps3, and Windows.

You control the leader of the Third Street Saints in the city of Steelport, with the story focusing on the gang war with The Syndicate, a rival criminal group.  The game blends third-person action and driving sequences through an open-ended storyline, with freedom to complete missions as you see fit. However your decisions will ultimately affect the game's ending.

Overview:
The games open world action, drew praise from critics, however many felt the story missions themselves do not allow for much creativity.  The games self aware humour however had the critics divided, some describing it as borderline offensive, others praising it's creativity. 

One odd and I hope, tongue in cheek, theme running throughout the reviews, embraces the notion that onscreen mindless violence is what video games are for. 

Score:
This hasn't detracted from a rather extraordinary current score of 87% xbox 360 and 81% Ps3 on Metacritic.com

Quote of the bunch:
"When you just want to indulge in some mindless violence and sexual depravity, this will more than suffice"
IGN

Reviews Summary
Ludicrous and lewd, but it's also a joy to play
Some amazing moments... and some truly abysmal ones
A lack of technical polish and weak combat overshadow its achievements
The ultimate sandbox, fans of the series will have a blast
A fun romp that doesn't take itself too seriously, defines what it means to have fun playing games
Shining novelties fueled by base guffaws quickly devolve into gimmicks
It's juvenile, occasionally objectionable
More intense, more chaotic, more bizarre
Missions vary wildly, and they're almost all bombastic, popcorn-movie affairs

Official Website

Goldeneye 007 Reloaded Game Review Summary

A remastering of the 2010 Wii game, for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Developed from scratch, featuring high-definition graphics, an achievement system, new "Mi6 Ops Missions", PlayStation Move compatibility, online play for up to 16 players (limited to one player per console), 14 multiplayer maps with nine different game modes for online multiplayer.

(deep breath)

"GoldenEye 007: Reloaded - Double 'O' Edition." is an exclusive PlayStation 3 bundle including the game on Blu-Ray Disc, the PlayStation Move motion and navigation controllers, PlayStation Eye Camera, the Sharp Shooter peripheral, and access to the downloadable character Hugo Drax.

Currently scoring 79% xbox 360 and 76% on Metacritic

Pick of the bunch
"Still Not The GoldenEye remake fans were hoping for, I would've been happier playing a $10 downloadable HD remake of the original game"
Game Informer

Reviews Summary
I suspect this will be one of the first titles to take a price drop
Clever additions and some much-needed refinements let's it stands with the big boys
A worthy successor,  gameplay delivers, both in single and multiplayer
Activision has made some incredibly intelligent decisions in their revision strategy
In the end, nostalgia just isn't a strong enough foundation to build a truly great game on.
Solo, you will be hard-pressed to get your money's worth out of the campaign and MI6 alone
Addictive multiplayer will keep you coming back for more
Invisible walls and less-than-stellar AI make the whole package suffer
Pleasantly surprised by GoldenEye: Reloaded,  it still has its English charms

 Official Website

Alf the Helper: You never mentioned Daniel Craig mr. elderly
Elderly: Nope your right, I didn't
Alf the Helper: :( Back to the Cellar?
Elderly: Yup

Batman Arkham City Review Summary xbox 360 Ps3

  Right click, open link in new window/tab for widescreen 1366x768

Sequel to the 2009 video game Batman: Arkham Asylum, incorporating elements of stealth and predator tactics.  Five-time Emmy-Award-winner Paul Dini returns to pen a brand-new story for Batman: Arkham City, taking gamers deep inside the diseased heart of Gotham.  Mark Hamill and Kevin Conroy reprise their voice acting roles as The Joker and Batman respectively.

The game has received universal acclaim from critics.
Scoring 95% xbox 360 and 96% Ps3 on Metacritic

 Quote of the bunch:
"quite possibly the best superhero game ever made" ZTDG

Reviews Summary
An immaculate mix of great side missions, tons of content and a fantastic atmosphere
It's easily one of the best titles I've played all year
Rich and surprising in many ways. A feat which makes it a must-see title of 2011
One of the best open worlds in any game and an immaculate mix of great side missions
In Arkham City, you become Batman. Most certainly the definitive Batman game
Breathing life into a staggeringly beautiful world
An unforgettable adventure that will keep you coming back long after you've seen the credits roll
An in-depth look on the character that even Nolan's movies cannot offer

Achievement list
Official Website
Arkham City Interactive screenshots
Arkham City Wallpaper
Arkham City Fan Music Video

Alf the helper: (staring at the bottom of the post) yep we chased off that Amazon link poster
Elderly: What? :(  let me look.....wher'd the advetisements go?
Alf the helper: Well don't look at me
Elderly: No worries Alf, this theft required a larger IQ than 2, something a certain leprechaun could manage though, Alf get the shoulder mounted RPG!!

F1 2011 Game Review Summary

F1 Wallpaper above, Right click, open link in new window/tab for size 1024x768

For Ps3,Xbox 360 3DS, PC and Playstaion Vita,
release: September 2011 20th(US) 22nd(Aus) 23rd(UK)

F1 2011 (the game) is a sequel to the BAFTA winning FORMULA ONE videogame from Codemasters. And coming with the tagline ‘Be The Driver, Live the Life, Go Compete’ I wish! well the live the life bit :(

The first game, whilst a rush to publish, had all the game elements and polish fans of the F1 series were looking for.  Now with more time for the developers to ....erm develop, the sequel promises the following.

Co-op Championships and split-screen mode,
16 players in online Grand Prix mode with 8 ai drivers to complete the pack.
Two new circuits in India and Germany
All twelve teams and twenty-four drivers, all the new rules, KERS, and DRS 
New Parc Ferme area, expanded and revamped Paddock, Pit Lane, celebration and reaction cinematics,
Enhanced media interaction system, "Authentic" new damage failures,
New atmospheric effects, dynamic clouds, advanced rain model affecting on-track grip

New!!! however does not necessarily mean better , but I am impressed with the additions.

Early reviews heaped lavish praise for improvements in handling and Ai and the additional layer of strategy in the game with the inclusion of KERS and DRS.  However it was the lauded Ai which also drew the potentially most damaging criticism, suggesting it made the game very difficult. And what about all those "NEW" additions? nope game critics weren't overly impressed suggesting they did little to change the core gameplay.  Which is kinda good as the first title was a cracker, even though I still can't get first place at Monaco grrrrrr!

currently scoring 85% (xbox), 86% (Ps3) on Metacritic, seems we have a winner :)

Reviews Summary:
The most complete representation of the sport to date
A must buy for F1 fans, a better game than last year
An absolute blast, whichever skill level you approach it from
Strip away the new lick of paint and it's tough to tell F1 2011 apart from its predecessor
A well-crafted and solid racing simulation, doesn't shine on innovation
For a seasonal update there's a remarkable number of tweaks and changes
Play it properly, and F1 2011 is an incredibly satisfying experience
Not without its problems, but it has moved the series forward

Official F1 2001 game website

Official F1 2001 game on twitter

Resistance 3 Reviews Summary Ps3

Not just an fps, but the third title in the Ps3 Resistance sci fi series and the first of the pack to support 3D and Playstation Move.  Sci fi I hear you say, yes i tell you, set in an alternate universe in the 1950's four years after resistance 2 and it appears the US has fallen into the hands of the IMF. 

Alf the helper: erm that's the Chimera mr.Elderly
Elderly: yes of course, the Chimera... fallen into the hands of the Chimerans, I knew that

Resistance 3 boasts 16-player competitive online multiplayer modes including Team Deathmatch, Chain Reaction, Deathmatch, Breach, and Capture the Frog.

Alf the helper: am that's Capture the ...Flag
Elderly: What? yes yes I know that..
Alf the helper: In the US, Resistance 3 has released with two editions: Standard & Doomsday with PAL regions getting the Special Edition and Survivor Edition.
Elderly: I knew that too, now quit interupting...

Scoring an accomplished 83% from 41 critic reviews on metacritic, as for criticism, what little consensus there is, concentrates on debate over the game's dramatic focus, and the loss of R2's pve element (Player versus environment) in multiplayer mode. Everybody loves the guns.

Quote of the bunch:
"a declaration of intent to become the new heir apparent to the sci-fi shooter throne."
Joystiq 

Reviews Summary:
One of the most powerful and beautifully crafted shooters on the market
As a lightweight pick-up-and-play romp, Resistance 3 is hard to resist
Managing to finally build on what the series has always had going for it.
It's certainly worth playing but, equally, it's certainly not a classic
Transformed a pretty great system exclusive into an essential genre experience
Fps unoriginality remains, meaning Resistance 3 never quite reaches its true potential
This time the action is more focused and tightly structured
Lacks the connective tissue to join its bite-size skirmishes into a seamless epic

Insomniac Games Resistance 3 website

Alf the helper: Why we got that nasty pic, where's the eyecandy?
Elderly: Extraodinarily dear Alf, there is a dearth of updated trailers and graphics
Alf the helper:  ? erm what's a dearth mr.elderly?
Elderly: A shortage, like your food rations for this week...

Dead Island Reviews, App and Comic

Out tommorrow in Us and due 9th September in EU

Dead Island is a first person horror action-adventure, with online cooperative gameplay, centered on the challenge of surviving on a zombie-infested island ("hordes" of them) with a strong emphasis on melee combat.

The force has been strong with this  ever since a questionable short trailer first set tongues wagging. The game has it's own iOS app and a Dead Island comic previously only available as a printed limited edition at the last July's San Diego ComiCon is now available (well 8 pages) for viewing through the official website.

What little reviews there are present for the Ps3, the gist of 16 xbox 360 reviews deal with critiscm concerning game presentation, occasional glitches, and texture loading. Though praise has been heaped on the atmosphere and success in the realisation of a survival horror RPG. Dead Island currently stands with 75% xbox 360 and 72% Ps3 scores on Metacritic

Quote of the bunch:
Did I enjoy this game? Absolutely. Did it scare the crap out of me at times? 100%.
Teamxbox

Reviews Summary:
Dead Island's clumsy horror-action role-player is the definition of an acquired taste
Dead Island distinguishes itself. A gory and exhilarating game.
The most realistic recreation of the inevitable and oncoming zombie apocalypse in video game history
Twitch action with an MMO's girth minus the grind cements the game as co-op classic.
Less memorable than the CG trailer that skyrocketed the buzz around its name
What fans of zombie horror films and RPG-Action games have waited for
Boils down to walking across an island of hungry corpses and back again
A gigantic island freely explorable, tons of quests and permanent sense of fear
It's inspired, but turgid. Brilliant, but flawed. Fun, but infuriating.

Elderly: Yes eventually
Alf the Helper: Well are we getting this o.... oh I see what you done there..
(Elderly smiles)

Bodycount Review Summary

In stores now! for PC, Xbox 360 and Ps3
View, Read,  Weep, Avoid!
Bodycount is set in a dystopian, war-ravaged near-future, with the action following an ex-forces hardman, employed by shadowy private security firm, "The Network", to fix combat hotpots around the world

Famous first words:
"Could well be one of the most progressive and individual shooters for many years" Guardian

Metacritic score 52-55% (ps3, xbxo 360) from 7 critic reviews

Bodycount Official Website
Bodycount on Facebook: current likes 2,157
Bodycount on Twitter: current followers 740

Alf the Helper: We're not getting it then?
Elderly: Nope, not a chance
Alf the Helper: But there's guns and explo....
(Elderly glares at Alf)
Alf the Helper: .....sigh! okay so

Bargain Bin Ratchet and Clank Future Review Summary

Full title: Ratchet and Clank Future: Tools of Destruction
Scoring 89% over 70 critic reviews
and 88% from over 422 user reviews on Metacritic

Released Oct 23, 2007 primarily a shooter-platformer. The player controls Ratchet most of the time, with some sections using Clank, as they explore various worlds to complete missions, using Ratchet's wrench and other exotic weapons gained during the course of the game.

Many reviewers hailed the game as a reason to purchase a Ps3, though a persistent complaint levelled at the title was it's lack of muliplayer, a feature of it's ps2 predessor.

Despite initial reportsof a HDD glitch and HD pixelation issues on some manufacturer's sets, the game recieved favourable reviews and is certainly worthy of a good rumage through your preowned shelfs.

Selling nearly 75,000 units during the month of release, by March 2008 the game had sold over 1 million units.

Quote of the bunch:
.....pure nerdvana from start to finish Gamestyle

Reviews Summary:
As perfect as a game can be, state of the art in every respect
The same PS2 title as ever, tired mechanics the epitome of platforming excellence
The controls feel great. The graphics look great. The score sounds great
The game is extremely easy, the story's premise is thin, the ending disappointing
A stellar title and will do much to propel the series to future titles
About as close to true perfection as games are gonna get right now.
Gives Sony something it desperately needs, a solid reason to actually own a PS3.
Sets the bar high for not only the series but for all PS3 games to come

Deus Ex Human Revolution Review Summary

Third offering in the Deus Ex series, available for Ps3 and xbox360. Deus Ex Human Revolution is a cyberpunk inspired game, with events taking place during the year 2027, 25 years before the original Deus Ex.  While many reviewers praised the open-ended nature of the game and the weight of conversations, criticisms were leveled at shortcomings such as ammo quantities, long loading times, and the inclusion of boss fights. Scoring an impressive 88% xbox 360 and 89% Ps3 respectively on Metacritic.  Heed the in-game advice, the direct route is not the only option open to you

"..it's in the gameplay that Deus Ex really shines, giving you absolute freedom over how you play"
James Sterling: Games from the Void

Reviews Summary:
Games don't get much better than this
May work better as art than it does as a game
Stands as a worthy successor in the series
Intelligent, fun, challenging and beautifully realized
Problematic gunplay and annoying stealth takedown mechanics
Human Revolution stands proudly alongside the best in cyberpunk fiction
It's a visionary, considered piece of work
Puts almost everything else in the genre to shame

Deus Ex Human Revolution Offical Website
Adam Jensen Wallpaper
Deus Ex Human Revolution Wiki

Reviews Summary El Shaddai Ascension of the Metatron (360, ps3)

Out in Japan and the US, due Europe: September 9th
My hopes were high for this, 3 years of hard work from a development team led by Sawaki Takeyasu (Devil May Cry) and Masato Kimura (Okami) :p the vids look passable :) and I was eager for something fresh :P But a scarcity of reviews prior to the US release date (always a bad sign), and a hint on twitter from  JamesSterling suggesting a less than stellar offering, cast a dark shadow on my expectations. But fear not!

Update: The Walkthrough and Guides are in :)

Japanese reviews: A 34/40 (85%) in Japan's Famitsu magazine, user reviews had been less kind (78%).


With a curent score of  78% Xbox 360 and  79% Ps3 on Metacritc
Suggests a rental first,.though the replay value is low... decisions decisions

If you trust your magazine reviews
9 out of 10 Game Informer

9 out of 10 Playstation the official Magazine
A+- Sci Fi Magazine

IGN blasted it: "In the end, El Shaddai attempts to do too much, and much of what it does it doesn't do well". 50

But those without the caffeine suggested:
A rare treat of a game and a celebration of video games as an art form.
An unconventional game and an entertaining adventure despite some of the creative gaps
I like it as an art piece and I dislike it as a game.
Leaves you smitten and awestruck,
Achieves what precious few can manage, aesthetic sophistication and a great game.
This game is definitely worth checking out for people seeking something new